Tennessee Titans

Chicago moved down from No. 60 to No. 69 in the 2026 draft and added No. 144. The Bears selected Stanford tight end Sam Roush at No. 69, while the later fifth-round choice was subsequently moved. The trade let Chicago gain an additional asset while still landing a player it valued, but the regular-season results are not yet available.

Buffalo and Tennessee swapped six 2026 draft choices when the Titans moved back into the first round for edge defender Keldric Faulk. Tennessee received Nos. 31, 69 and 165, while Buffalo received Nos. 35, 66 and 101. With no regular-season results yet from the rookies and several picks subsequently moved again, the fairest August 2026 judgment remains even and provisional.

New York agreed to acquire defensive tackle T'Vondre Sweat from Tennessee on February 26, 2026, in exchange for edge rusher Jermaine Johnson, with the deal formally processed in March. Sweat brought two seasons of starting interior production to the Jets. Because the 2026 regular season has not begun, the football return remains unresolved and an even preliminary grade is most appropriate.

Baltimore acquired Dre'Mont Jones from Tennessee on November 4, 2025 for a conditional 2026 fifth-round pick that settled at No. 142 and became Fernando Carmona. Jones produced 2.5 sacks in nine Ravens games, giving Baltimore useful veteran pass-rush snaps without a premium cost. Tennessee converted a short-term veteran into a young draft asset.

The Rams acquired Roger McCreary and a 2026 sixth-round pick from Tennessee for a 2026 fifth-rounder. McCreary's Los Angeles tenure was interrupted almost immediately by injury and produced only a modest statistical return after he came back. Tennessee, meanwhile, improved its draft position from the sixth-round asset it sent to the fifth-round asset it received. The round upgrade gives the Titans the stronger outcome so far.

Baltimore traded Nos. 136 and 183 to Tennessee in the 2025 draft for Nos. 141 and 178, turning the exchange into Carson Vinson and Bilhal Kone. The Ravens stayed in roughly the same portion of the board and added two developmental players. After one completed season, though, their pair has produced less realized value than Tennessee's Elic Ayomanor and Marcus Harris, putting Baltimore behind for now.

Seattle paid the No. 52 and No. 82 selections to move up to No. 35 for safety Nick Emmanwori. As a rookie, Emmanwori started 11 regular-season games, filled multiple defensive roles, made the PFWA All-Rookie Team and started throughout Seattle's Super Bowl LX run. That immediate high-level contribution gives the Seahawks the early advantage.

Kansas City acquired DeAndre Hopkins from Tennessee for a conditional 2025 fifth-round pick that remained in the fifth round. Hopkins caught 41 passes for 437 yards and four touchdowns in 10 regular-season games with the Chiefs and contributed during another Super Bowl run. Tennessee recovered useful draft capital for a veteran, but Kansas City received meaningful contender-window production at an affordable cost.

Seattle acquired Ernest Jones IV for Jerome Baker and a 2025 fourth-round pick, then watched Jones become a defensive centerpiece. He earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2025, helped Seattle win Super Bowl LX and remained with the club on a new contract. Tennessee still produced useful value through Gunnar Helm, but Jones' impact makes this a clear Seahawks victory.

The Chargers acquired Elijah Molden from Tennessee for a 2026 seventh-round pick and immediately received starter-level value. Molden started 12 games in 2024, intercepted three passes, recovered two fumbles and became part of the league's stingiest scoring defense before earning a multi-year extension. Tennessee gained late-round capital, but Los Angeles turned a minimal price into a durable secondary piece.

The Rams sent Ernest Jones and a 2026 sixth-round pick to Tennessee for a 2026 fifth-round pick. Tennessee then turned Jones into another return less than two months later, receiving linebacker Jerome Baker and a 2025 fourth-round pick from Seattle. That second move transformed a small pick swap into additional veteran help and meaningful draft capital, making Tennessee the clear winner of the original exchange.

Green Bay acquired Malik Willis from Tennessee for a 2025 seventh-round pick, a modest cost that quickly paid off when Jordan Love was injured. Willis threw for 550 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions with a 124.8 passer rating in 2024, then remained an efficient backup in 2025. Tennessee turned the pick into later draft movement, but the Packers received meaningful quarterback insurance at one of the league’s most valuable positions.

Cleveland traded tackle Leroy Watson IV to Tennessee on April 12, 2024 for the 227th pick in the draft. The Browns later used that seventh-round selection on South Dakota cornerback Myles Harden. Tennessee added familiar offensive-line depth, while Cleveland converted a reserve tackle into a young draft asset. The modest exchange still tilts toward the Browns, producing a C+ to C result.

Kansas City traded L'Jarius Sneed and pick No. 252 to Tennessee on March 29, 2024 for pick No. 221 and a 2025 third-round selection. The third-rounder became No. 66 Ashton Gillotte, who played all 17 games as a rookie and recorded 37 tackles, 1.5 sacks, a pass defended and an interception. Kansas City later included No. 221 in its larger 2024 first-round trade with Buffalo. Sneed's separate 2026 free-agent return to the Chiefs is not counted as trade compensation.

Philadelphia acquired All-Pro safety Kevin Byard from Tennessee for Terrell Edmunds plus 2024 fifth- and sixth-round picks. Byard started 11 games including the playoffs, but the Eagles released him the following March. Tennessee converted the picks into Jarvis Brownlee Jr. and Jha'Quan Jackson while also receiving Edmunds, producing more continuing roster value than Philadelphia obtained from its short rental.

New England Patriots received 2025 7th round pick (217th overall subsequently traded, Jay Toia) from Tennessee Titans. New England received a 2025 seventh-round choice and later moved that selection in a separate package. The Patriots did not realize a comparable direct football return from this transaction itself. That outcome supports a C grade for New England Patriots. The final verdict is Tennessee Titans Win, based on the football value the club actually realized from the assets it controlled after the exchange.

Arizona moved from No. 33 to No. 41 in 2023, exchanged third-round positions and added Tennessee's 2024 third-rounder. The Titans selected Will Levis and Tyjae Spears; Arizona's return became BJ Ojulari, Garrett Williams and Isaiah Adams. Spears has been productive, but Levis did not establish himself as Tennessee's long-term quarterback, while Williams and Adams developed into regular Arizona starters. The broader return favors the Cardinals.

Carolina sent Dennis Daley and a 2024 seventh-round pick to Tennessee for a 2024 fifth-rounder. Daley became the Titans' emergency starting left tackle and started 15 games in 2022, so Tennessee received real short-term utility. He left after one season, while Carolina upgraded a late-round asset by two rounds and moved a player who had been squeezed by improved offensive-line depth, giving the Panthers the better value.

Philadelphia sent defensive back Ugo Amadi and a 2024 seventh-round pick to Tennessee for a 2024 sixth-rounder, effectively moving up one round in a future draft. Amadi played only two games for the Titans before being waived. Tennessee eventually used the seventh-round choice on James Williams, who appeared in 29 games over his first two seasons, leaving both teams with modest but real value.

Las Vegas Raiders received conditional 2024 seventh-round pick (not conveyed). Las Vegas received a conditional 2024 seventh-round pick, but the condition was not met and the choice was never conveyed. That result supports a C- for Las Vegas Raiders. The overall comparison is balanced because neither side created a clear enough edge to separate the grades. The grade reflects the realized player service and draft value tied directly to this transaction, without assigning extra credit for outcomes that cannot be traced confidently to the exchanged assets.

Tennessee traded picks No. 90 and No. 169 to Las Vegas during the 2022 draft to move up four spots to No. 86, where the Titans selected quarterback Malik Willis. Willis appeared in 11 regular-season games with three starts over two Tennessee seasons before the Titans traded him to Green Bay in 2024 for a seventh-round pick.

The Jets sent Tennessee picks 35, 69 and 163 for Nos. 26 and 101, selecting Jermaine Johnson and Jeremy Ruckert. Johnson became a 2023 Pro Bowler before an Achilles tear cost him most of 2024, while Ruckert developed into a regular tight end and earned an extension. Tennessee received several starters, led by Roger McCreary and Nicholas Petit-Frere. The Titans gained more total snaps, but the Jets landed the highest-ceiling player, making the result essentially even.

Philadelphia acquired A.J. Brown for the first-round pick used on Treylon Burks and a third-round pick, then turned Brown into an elite centerpiece of a championship offense. He helped the Eagles reach two Super Bowls, scored in their Super Bowl LIX victory, and in 2026 Philadelphia later traded him to New England for a 2028 first-rounder and a 2027 fifth-rounder.

Los Angeles Rams received 2023 sixth-round pick No. 189, Ochaun Mathis; Tennessee Titans received Robert Woods. Mathis appeared in eight Rams games as a rookie reserve, made two tackles and recorded no sacks. Woods started 15 of 17 games for Tennessee in 2022 and led the Titans with 53 receptions for 527 yards and two touchdowns. The realized returns support Tennessee Titans Win, with Los Angeles Rams graded C and Tennessee Titans graded B-.

Atlanta sent Julio Jones and a 2023 sixth-round pick to Tennessee for a 2022 second and conditional 2023 fourth. Jones played only 10 regular-season games for the Titans, catching 31 passes for 434 yards and one touchdown before being released after one season. Atlanta used the second-rounder on Troy Andersen and later moved the fourth-round asset. Andersen's injuries limited his ceiling, but the Falcons still recovered far more durable value than Tennessee received.

Tennessee traded up to No. 109 in the 2021 draft for receiver Dez Fitzpatrick, sending Carolina picks 126, 166 and 232. The Panthers used those selections on Chuba Hubbard, Keith Taylor and Phil Hoskins. Hubbard developed into a productive starting running back and earned a long-term extension, while Fitzpatrick made only a limited NFL impact. Carolina's move-down produced the clear long-term winner.

Green Bay sent picks No. 92 and No. 135 to Tennessee to move up seven spots for Amari Rodgers at No. 85. Rodgers appeared in 26 games with one start before the Packers released him in November 2022, and problems in the return game shortened his opportunity. The move-up therefore produced little lasting offensive or special-teams value for Green Bay.

Miami acquired Isaiah Wilson and a 2022 seventh-round selection that ultimately became Skylar Thompson. Wilson was waived only three days after the trade, but Thompson later started NFL games for Miami and gave the club meaningful value from the future pick. The B- grade reflects that mixed package and a modest edge in realized return over Tennessee.

Los Angeles traded Desmond King to Tennessee for the 2021 sixth-round pick later used on Nick Niemann. King helped the Titans only for the remainder of 2020 before leaving, while Niemann gave the Chargers four seasons of regular special-teams service. The pick produced the longer club return, so Los Angeles earns the moderate hindsight win.

Jacksonville received linebacker Kamalei Correa plus Tennessee's 2021 seventh-round pick while surrendering a 2021 sixth-rounder. Correa's Jaguars stay was brief, but the club added a veteran and still retained later draft capital. Moving down only one round for that combination gave Jacksonville the slightly stronger practical return.

Tennessee turned Kansas City's 2020 seventh-round choice into the 2021 sixth-round pick used on safety Brady Breeze, who appeared in five games for the Titans before being waived. Kansas City used No. 237 on BoPete Keyes, who played eight games with one start and seven tackles as a rookie. Both returns were small, but Keyes gave the Chiefs the slightly stronger direct contribution.

Denver acquired five-time Pro Bowler Jurrell Casey from Tennessee for a seventh-round pick, but the veteran played only three games for the Broncos before a season-ending biceps injury and was released the following February. Tennessee received very little draft value, yet it also moved an expensive veteran contract. With neither side realizing major on-field gains, the deal finishes much closer to even than Denver's acquisition-day bargain suggested.

Cleveland acquired wide receiver Taywan Taylor from Tennessee on August 31, 2019 for the Browns' 2020 seventh-round pick at No. 224. Taylor appeared in six regular-season games over two Cleveland seasons, including one start, and returned three kickoffs for 53 yards but did not record a reception.

Green Bay received the 2020 sixth-round pick at No. 208 and selected Jake Hanson. Green Bay turned the compensation into the 208th pick in the 2020 draft and selected Jake Hanson. Hanson gave the Packers only limited playing time, so the choice never became a meaningful long-term return. A sixth-round pick still carried useful optionality, but the realized football value remained modest. In hindsight, that result supports a C grade for Green Bay Packers in a deal ultimately judged as Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans Win.

New York received picks No. 121 and No. 157 from Tennessee and selected Trevon Wesco and Blake Cashman. Wesco filled a blocking and special-teams role, while Cashman's Jets tenure was repeatedly interrupted before he later found greater success elsewhere. Tennessee used No. 116 on Amani Hooker, who became a multiyear starting safety, giving the Titans the stronger team-specific return.

Miami sent Ryan Tannehill and a 2019 sixth-round pick to Tennessee for a 2019 seventh-rounder and a 2020 fourth-round pick. The Dolphins were resetting their roster and moved on from an expensive veteran quarterback, but Tannehill immediately revived his career with the Titans, winning Comeback Player of the Year and helping Tennessee reach the 2019 AFC Championship Game. Miami’s draft return never approached that level of impact.

Baltimore Ravens traded Kamalei Correa to Tennessee for a 2019 sixth-round pick that Baltimore later moved and that ultimately became No. 191, Marcus Epps. Because the Ravens did not directly turn the choice into a comparable long-term contributor, their realized return was limited. Correa became a useful Titans defender, so Baltimore receives a C in the final comparison.

Baltimore moved down from No. 152 and received Nos. 162 and 215. Jordan Lasley provided little, but Bradley Bozeman became a four-year Ravens contributor who played 62 games and started 49, including 16 starts in each of his final three Baltimore seasons. Bozeman's sustained offensive-line role gave the Ravens a strong return from the move down.

Tennessee sent picks 57 and 89 to Oakland to move up to No. 41 for edge rusher Harold Landry. Landry became a long-term Titans starter, double-digit sack producer and Pro Bowler, while Oakland used No. 57 on P.J. Hall and later moved No. 89. Hall lasted only two seasons with the Raiders. Tennessee paid a real premium, but it secured by far the best player in the exchange.

Baltimore moved from No. 22 to No. 25 in 2018, sending Tennessee a sixth-rounder and receiving a fourth-round pick. The Ravens selected Hayden Hurst at No. 25 and later used the acquired fourth-round asset in the package that brought back the 32nd pick for Lamar Jackson. Hurst himself was eventually traded to Atlanta for valuable draft capital. Tennessee selected Rashaan Evans, a four-year starting linebacker, producing a solid but less expansive return.

New York moved up seven spots in the sixth round on April 29, 2017, sending picks No. 207 and No. 241 to Tennessee for No. 200. The Giants selected Pittsburgh tackle Adam Bisnowaty, who spent most of his rookie season on the practice squad and made one NFL regular-season appearance and start for New York. The trade-up therefore produced only a one-game on-field return before Bisnowaty left the organization in 2018.

Philadelphia received Nos. 164 and 214. The Eagles later moved No. 164 again, so Isaac Asiata belongs to the subsequent transaction chain rather than this return, while Elijah Qualls appeared in only six games for Philadelphia. The package retained draft flexibility, but the direct realized football value was limited and did not approach the sustained defensive production Tennessee obtained.

Tennessee moved down from No. 200 to Nos. 207 and 241, then immediately flipped No. 207 to Cincinnati for Nos. 217 and 227. The downstream package produced Corey Levin, Josh Carraway and Khalfani Muhammad, with Levin becoming the durable return.

Tennessee traded No. 207 to Cincinnati for Nos. 217 and 227, selecting Corey Levin and Josh Carraway. Levin ultimately logged 88 regular-season games and seven starts for the Titans through 2025, while Carraway appeared in one game.

Tennessee moved up to No. 72 in the 2017 draft and also received pick No. 200, sending New England picks No. 83 and No. 124. The Titans selected receiver Taywan Taylor at No. 72, and he produced 53 catches for 697 yards and two touchdowns over his Tennessee tenure. New England chose Derek Rivers at No. 83 and later used No. 124 in another trade, but received little direct on-field value.

Tennessee received Dennis Kelly; Philadelphia received Dorial Green-Beckham. Tennessee exchanged Dorial Green-Beckham for Dennis Kelly. Green-Beckham caught 36 passes for 392 yards and two touchdowns in his lone Philadelphia season, while Kelly became a multi-year Titans lineman and eventually a 16-game starter. The hindsight grades are C- for Philadelphia Eagles and B+ for Tennessee Titans, producing a Tennessee Titans Win verdict.

Denver and Tennessee reshuffled late-round draft capital in 2016, with the Broncos receiving No. 176 and a 2017 sixth while the Titans received Nos. 157 and 253. Denver turned No. 176 into fullback Andy Janovich, a useful four-year contributor, while Tennessee used No. 157 on cornerback LeShaun Sims, who played 56 games and made 11 starts for the Titans. The realized value is remarkably balanced.

Cleveland moved down from No. 8 in the 2016 draft and received Nos. 15 and 76 plus the 2017 No. 52 pick, which became Corey Coleman, Shon Coleman and DeShone Kizer. The Browns accumulated premium volume but did not turn the three core selections into lasting high-level value. Tennessee used No. 8 on Jack Conklin, whose immediate and sustained performance created the decisive advantage.

Los Angeles paid a massive package to Tennessee for the No. 1 pick in 2016 and selected Jared Goff. Goff became a Pro Bowler and quarterbacked the Rams to Super Bowl LIII, giving Los Angeles real high-end value. Tennessee turned the return into a collection that included Derrick Henry, Corey Davis, Austin Johnson and Jonnu Smith. Both teams benefited, but Henry's historic Titans career and the depth of the package give Tennessee the edge.

Philadelphia escaped a disastrous one-year fit with DeMarco Murray and improved its position in the fourth round, sending Murray and pick No. 113 to Tennessee for No. 100. The Eagles later folded No. 100 into the Carson Wentz trade, so the deal had strategic value. Still, Murray immediately rebounded in Tennessee, making the Titans the stronger winner on realized football value.

Atlanta acquired veteran guard Andy Levitre from Tennessee for a 2016 sixth-round pick and a future conditional selection. The move became a strong fit in Kyle Shanahan's offense: Levitre immediately started at left guard, remained a regular starter for three-plus seasons, and helped anchor the line during the Falcons' 2016 run to Super Bowl LI. Tennessee recovered modest draft value but gave up the better player outcome.

The Giants sent picks No. 40, No. 108 and No. 245 to Tennessee to move up seven spots for safety Landon Collins. Collins became a three-time Pro Bowler and first-team All-Pro during four seasons in New York. Tennessee used the return on Dorial Green-Beckham, Jalston Fowler and Tre McBride; all contributed to varying degrees, but none approached Collins' peak or importance. New York won the aggressive move.

Tennessee traded up eight spots in the sixth round for quarterback Zach Mettenberger, sending Washington picks that became Lache Seastrunk and Zach Hocker. Mettenberger never developed into a long-term answer, but he did start 10 games and threw for 2,347 yards as a Titan. Neither Washington selection produced regular-season value for Washington, giving Tennessee the modest but clear hindsight edge.

Philadelphia moved from No. 54 to No. 42 in the 2014 second round, sending Tennessee the 54th and 122nd picks. The Eagles selected Jordan Matthews, who produced 225 catches, 2,673 yards and 19 touchdowns in his first three seasons. Tennessee drafted Bishop Sankey and Marqueston Huff; both contributed, but neither became a long-term starter. The Eagles captured the best player and the strongest sustained production.

San Francisco traded down six spots in the 2013 second round, sending No. 34 to Tennessee for No. 40, No. 216, and a 2014 third-round pick. Tennessee selected Justin Hunter, while the 49ers took Tank Carradine and later Chris Borland with the future third. Hunter had useful stretches, but San Francisco's extra assets and Borland's outstanding rookie season created slightly more value.

Minnesota sent the 2012 No. 211 pick to Tennessee for the Titans' 2013 sixth-round selection. Tennessee used No. 211 on Scott Solomon. Minnesota's future choice became No. 176, which the Vikings later moved to Arizona in the A.J. Jefferson trade and used that exchange to add Jefferson plus the pick that became Michael Mauti. Official Titans records confirm that No. 163 and No. 224 were not part of this transaction.

Miami moved down ten spots in the fifth round in 2012 and received an additional seventh-round pick, turning the package into Josh Kaddu and Rishard Matthews. Tennessee used No. 145 on tight end Taylor Thompson, whose NFL impact was limited. Matthews became the standout asset, eventually producing 3,160 career receiving yards and 21 touchdowns, making Miami the clear winner.

Green Bay traded fullback Quinn Johnson to Tennessee on September 3, 2011 for a conditional 2012 draft choice. The condition was not met, so Green Bay received no draft asset from the deal.

Seattle and Tennessee exchanged players and draft positions during the 2010 draft. The Seahawks received LenDale White, Kevin Vickerson, pick 111 and pick 185, while the Titans received picks 104 and 176. Tennessee used No. 104 on Alterraun Verner, who became a Pro Bowl cornerback, while Seattle found useful depth in Walter Thurmond and Anthony McCoy. Verner's peak gives Tennessee the stronger return.

Tennessee sent its 2010 second-round pick to New England for No. 89 in 2009 and selected tight end Jared Cook. Cook developed into a productive four-year Titans target with 1,717 receiving yards. New England later moved the future No. 47 pick to Arizona, beginning a chain that produced Brandon Spikes, Zoltan Mesko and another future second-rounder.

Dallas received Adam Jones and, after his 2008 suspension triggered a trade clause, also received Tennessee's 2009 fifth-round pick at No. 166, later used on Michael Hamlin. Jones did contribute for the Cowboys, but the tenure was short and turbulent. The additional pick keeps Dallas from grading poorly, yet the total return remains only a C+.

Tennessee moved up to No. 103 for William Hayes, who played 48 Titans games, started 12 and recorded eight sacks from 2008-11. Washington got Justin Tryon at No. 124, who played 29 games with two starts, then paired No. 157 with another seventh-rounder to obtain Durant Brooks and Kareem Moore. Moore became the best Washington downstream result with 42 games and 13 starts, but No. 157 was only half of that move. The concrete returns balance at B/B.

Seattle traded defensive end Bryce Fisher to Tennessee on September 11, 2007 for a 2008 sixth-round pick, not a 2007 fifth-rounder. Seattle used the No. 189 selection on long snapper Tyler Schmitt, who never appeared in an NFL regular-season game.

San Diego acquired veteran quarterback Billy Volek from Tennessee for a conditional 2007 sixth-round selection that ultimately became pick 204, where the Titans selected defensive end Jacob Ford. The Chargers received dependable quarterback insurance plus a memorable postseason contribution, while the Titans turned a surplus player into several seasons of defensive production.

Baltimore acquired Steve McNair from Tennessee for a 2007 fourth-round pick and immediately solved a quarterback problem that had limited an elite defense. McNair started all 16 games in 2006, went 13-3, threw for 3,050 yards and helped the Ravens earn a first-round bye. The cost became receiver Chris Davis, whose Tennessee career produced only seven catches for 69 yards.

Indianapolis sent a 2007 sixth-round pick to Tennessee for No. 238 in the 2006 draft and selected return specialist T.J. Rushing. The future pick became No. 206, which Tennessee used on Ryan Smith. Rushing contributed on special teams for the Colts and scored on a punt return during his tenure, while Smith did not record an NFL regular-season appearance.

Philadelphia moved up six spots for tackle Winston Justice, giving Tennessee picks 45 and 116. The Titans turned those selections into running back LenDale White and linebacker Stephen Tulloch. Getting two productive starters from the move down, including a long-term defensive regular, outweighed the value Philadelphia received from Justice and makes Tennessee the clear winner.

Indianapolis acquired linebacker Rocky Calmus from Tennessee on September 3, 2005 for a conditional 2006 seventh-round pick that became No. 238 overall. Colts trade history identifies the exact selection. Calmus did not develop into a meaningful regular-season contributor for Indianapolis, so the move produced little direct on-field return even though the acquisition cost was only a late-round choice.

Buffalo traded running back Travis Henry to Tennessee in July 2005 for a 2006 third-round pick that became No. 70 overall, cornerback Ashton Youboty. Youboty spent five seasons with the Bills, appearing in 43 games and making seven starts. Buffalo obtained a legitimate young defensive contributor for a back who had lost the starting job, but Henry's 2006 breakout in Tennessee gave the Titans the higher peak return.

Detroit moved up four spots in the 2005 second round to select defensive tackle Shaun Cody, sending Tennessee picks 41 and 113. Cody became a useful NFL player but never an impact Lion. The Titans turned their two selections into tackles Michael Roos and David Stewart, a long-running starting pair that anchored the offensive line for years, making this one of the clearest value gaps in the wave.

Tennessee sent defensive end Carlos Hall to Kansas City on April 6, 2005 and received the Chiefs' fifth-round pick, No. 150 overall. Tennessee used that selection on offensive lineman Daniel Loper. Hall gave Kansas City one season of rotational work, while Loper remained with the Titans for four seasons, giving Tennessee the more durable return.

Houston traded four picks to Tennessee for Nos. 27 and 159, using the first-rounder on edge rusher Jason Babin. Babin produced 13 sacks across three Texans seasons and was traded away in 2007, never matching the price Houston paid to move up. The fifth-rounder was later moved again. The aggressive investment failed to create the cornerstone pass rusher the expansion franchise sought.

New York acquired Justin McCareins from Tennessee for the 42nd pick in the 2004 draft. New York acquired Justin McCareins and received four seasons of receiving production from him. McCareins was not a dominant No. 1 target, but he gave the Jets a substantial body of usable snaps and catches over multiple years. That level of contribution makes the acquisition defensible even though Tennessee ultimately received the better return.

New England sent Tennessee picks No. 154 and No. 225 in 2003 for selections No. 164, No. 201 and No. 243. The Patriots used the first acquired pick on center Dan Koppen, who started 120 regular-season games for New England and won two Super Bowls. Tennessee's return produced Donnie Nickey and Todd Williams, giving the Patriots a major advantage from a seemingly modest late-round shuffle.

New York moved from No. 15 to No. 14 in the 2002 draft by sending Tennessee the 15th selection and No. 110, then used the higher pick on Jeremy Shockey. Shockey became a four-time Pro Bowler for the Giants and produced 371 receptions, 4,228 yards and 27 touchdowns. Tennessee stayed one spot lower and landed Albert Haynesworth plus Mike Echols.

New York moved up one spot in the 2002 draft for Jeremy Shockey, sending Tennessee the No. 15 choice and a fourth-rounder. The Titans used No. 15 on Albert Haynesworth and No. 110 on Mike Echols. Shockey became an immediate Pro Bowl tight end, but Haynesworth's dominant peak and the extra selection give Tennessee a slight edge in a trade that worked for both clubs.

Carolina acquired safety Perry Phenix from Tennessee in September 2001 for a conditional 2002 seventh-round pick that was never exercised. Phenix appeared in only two games for the Panthers before leaving, while Tennessee ultimately received no draft selection. The deal produced almost no lasting value for either side, making an even grade more appropriate than a Panthers win.

Tennessee Titans received 2002 7th round pick (240th overall, Carlos Hall). Tennessee received the 2002 seventh-round pick used on Carlos Hall, who recorded eight sacks as a rookie and contributed for three seasons. That result supports an A- for Tennessee Titans. The overall comparison favors Tennessee Titans, which produced the stronger realized return. The grade reflects the realized player service and draft value tied directly to this transaction, without assigning extra credit for outcomes that cannot be traced confidently to the exchanged assets.

The Rams traded defensive end Kevin Carter to Tennessee in April 2001 for the 29th pick, which became defensive tackle Ryan Pickett. Carter started every game in four Titans seasons, totaled 23.5 sacks and reached the Pro Bowl in 2002. Pickett became a four-year starter for St. Louis after his rookie season and later enjoyed a 207-game NFL career. Both teams converted the exchange into substantial front-seven value, making this a strong even trade.

Las Vegas Raiders received 2001 7th round pick (229th overall, Ken-Yon Rambo) from Tennessee Titans. Rambo never appeared in a Raiders regular-season game, so the seventh-round return did not become usable on-field value for Oakland. The D grade reflects the direct value Las Vegas Raiders realized from the transaction, with the final Tennessee Titans Win call based on actual service and clearly traceable draft outcomes rather than projected value.

Philadelphia traded picks No. 68 and No. 135 to Tennessee for No. 61 and selected guard Bobbie Williams. Williams became a useful Eagle late in his tenure, appearing in 33 regular-season games from 2001 through 2003 and starting 12, before developing into a long-term starter elsewhere. Philadelphia found a legitimate NFL lineman, but most of his career value arrived after he left the Eagles.

New England moved from No. 52 to No. 46 in the 1999 draft and selected Kevin Faulk, sending Tennessee picks 52 and 117. Faulk spent 13 seasons with the Patriots, gained more than 7,000 yards from scrimmage and won three Super Bowls. Tennessee used No. 52 on John Thornton, who also built a long and productive NFL career.

Chicago acquired linebacker Lemanski Hall from Tennessee on September 1, 1998 for a 2000 seventh-round pick. Hall appeared in 15 games for the Bears that season without starting. Tennessee eventually used the acquired No. 213 selection on running back Mike Green, who played 32 games for the Titans from 2000 through 2002 and scored three offensive touchdowns.

Kansas City moved from No. 18 to No. 13 and selected Tony Gonzalez, who became the defining tight end of his era and one of the greatest players in franchise history. Tennessee received a multi-pick package led by Kenny Holmes, a productive defensive lineman, but no part of the return approached Gonzalez's Hall of Fame impact.

New Orleans moved from pick No. 107 to Nos. 116 and 165, then selected wide receiver Keith Poole and offensive lineman Nick Savoie. Poole became the useful piece: he played 48 games for the Saints and caught 11 touchdowns. Savoie appeared only briefly, but Poole alone supplied more New Orleans production than Tennessee received from Pratt Lyons, making the trade-down worthwhile.

Atlanta acquired quarterback Chris Chandler from the Houston Oilers in 1997 for the 98th and 165th selections. Chandler became a Pro Bowl quarterback and led the 1998 Falcons to the franchise's first Super Bowl appearance, giving Atlanta an enormous return from two mid-round picks. His championship-season peak made the veteran acquisition one of the most productive outcomes in the exchange.

Los Angeles Rams received 1997 sixth-round pick No. 179, Muadianvita Kazadi; Tennessee Titans received Robert Young. Kazadi played 12 games as a Rams rookie reserve in 1997 with no starts. Young became Houston's starting right defensive end in 1996, starting 13 games, appearing in 15 and recording four sacks. The realized returns support Tennessee Titans Win, with Los Angeles Rams graded C and Tennessee Titans graded B-.

The Raiders jumped from No. 17 to No. 9 in the 1996 draft and selected tight end Rickey Dudley, sending Houston the 17th, 48th and 109th picks. Dudley became a productive NFL starter, so Oakland did not come away empty. Houston, however, turned the package into multiple useful assets and used No. 17 moments later as the centerpiece of the move for Eddie George, giving the Oilers the far greater long-term return.

Houston moved from No. 17 to No. 14 in the 1996 draft by sending Seattle defensive lineman Glenn Montgomery along with the 17th pick. The Oilers selected Eddie George, who became the franchise’s all-time rushing leader and powered the team through its move to Tennessee. Seattle immediately flipped No. 17 to Detroit and came away with Pete Kendall and Reggie Brown, so the Seahawks created useful value. George’s decade-defining impact still makes Houston the clear winner.

Minnesota acquired Warren Moon for a 1994 fourth-round pick and a 1995 third-round pick, a modest price for a proven Hall of Fame-caliber quarterback. Moon immediately gave the Vikings two high-level seasons, set franchise passing records, and reached the Pro Bowl in 1994 and 1995. For a team built to contend, converting two mid-round selections into that level of quarterback play was an excellent short-term use of draft capital.

Houston traded picks No. 19 and No. 75 to Philadelphia in the 1993 draft to climb to No. 13 and select tackle Brad Hopkins. Hopkins became a franchise fixture, starting 188 games over 13 seasons and earning two Pro Bowl selections. Philadelphia turned the returned choices into Lester Holmes and Derrick Frazier, neither of whom matched that impact. The Oilers/Titans earn a decisive A to D+ win.

New Orleans acquired running back Allen Pinkett from the Houston Oilers in January 1992 for a fifth-round pick in that year's draft. Houston used the transferred selection at No. 133 on linebacker Joe Bowden. Pinkett was added to strengthen a Saints backfield coming off an NFC West title, but a preseason knee injury prevented the deal from producing the hoped-for immediate return.

The Houston Oilers sent the 17th pick in 1991 to New England for Nos. 28 and 101, which became Mike Dumas and David Rocker. New England then packaged No. 17 with another selection to move to No. 14 and draft Leonard Russell. Russell won Offensive Rookie of the Year, giving the Patriots the strongest result from the exchange.

Miami acquired linebacker John Grimsley from Houston for the 79th pick in the 1991 draft. Grimsley eventually started 20 games for the Dolphins across the 1992 and 1993 seasons, providing useful defensive value. Houston used No. 79 on Kevin Donnalley, who remained with the Oilers and Titans organization for seven seasons and became a regular offensive-line starter.

Dallas acquired running back Alonzo Highsmith from the Houston Oilers on September 3, 1990, surrendering a 1991 second-round pick and a 1992 fifth-rounder. Houston used the second-round choice on Darryll Lewis and the later pick on Tim Roberts. Highsmith's Dallas stay was brief and injury-limited, while Lewis became a long-term starting defensive back and Pro Bowler, making Houston the clear winner.

Philadelphia traded quarterback Don McPherson to Houston on August 2, 1990 for the Oilers' 1991 sixth-round pick, No. 156. The Eagles used it on defensive lineman Andy Harmon, who became a long-term starter and recorded 39.5 sacks during seven seasons with Philadelphia. Houston did not receive comparable value from McPherson. The Eagles turn a reserve quarterback into an A-grade return, while Houston receives a D+.

The Houston Oilers moved veteran punter Jeff Gossett to the Los Angeles Raiders in August 1988 after Gossett requested a trade. Contemporary reports describe the return only as unspecified consideration, with conflicting wording about whether it was past or future consideration. Gossett immediately won the Raiders' punting job and stayed through 1996, eventually becoming an All-Pro and one of the most productive punters in franchise history.

Philadelphia traded defensive backs Evan Cooper and Elbert Foules to the Houston Oilers on July 23, 1988 in two related deals, receiving one undisclosed conditional 1989 draft choice for each player. Neither Cooper nor Foules appeared in a regular-season game for Houston after the trade, while Philadelphia retained two pieces of conditional draft consideration. The exact selections have not been identified, but the traceable outcome favors the Eagles.

San Francisco acquired safety Bo Eason from the Houston Oilers on June 6, 1988 for a conditional 1989 fifth-round draft choice tied to Eason making the roster. Eason entered camp as an experienced former second-round pick but suffered a knee injury before appearing in a 49ers regular-season game. The exact downstream Houston selection is not identified in the reviewed record.

San Diego sent Houston picks No. 72 and No. 125 in the 1988 draft for pick No. 60, which became receiver Quinn Early. Early gave the Chargers three seasons and 739 receiving yards before developing into a bigger producer elsewhere. Houston used its choices on punter Greg Montgomery and cornerback Cris Dishman, with Dishman becoming a long-term starter and 43-interception NFL defender.

Los Angeles sent defensive end Sean Jones plus second- and third-round selections to Houston for the ninth pick and additional third- and fourth-round choices. The centerpiece became cornerback Terry McDaniel, a five-time Pro Bowler who intercepted 35 passes in a long Raiders career. The other acquired choices were moved again, but McDaniel's sustained star-level play makes the deal a Raiders success.

The Raiders received Houston's 1988 second-round pick for veteran tackle Bruce Davis. That selection carried real value and was later sent back to Houston as part of the larger Sean Jones trade, where it became the 48th pick used on Quintin Jones. Jones played only five NFL games, while Davis supplied Houston with 39 starts after the original trade, leaving the Raiders with the weaker isolated return.

New England acquired center Jim Romano from Houston in August 1987 for a conditional 1988 draft choice. The Patriots' 1988 media guide establishes that Romano never played a game for New England, so no draft choice was transferred. Romano went to injured reserve and was waived off IR in December. Neither side received regular-season football value, supporting C/C and Even Trade.

Washington acquired veteran tight end Chris Dressel from Houston in June 1987 for an undisclosed 1988 draft choice. Contemporary reports support a future pick but do not support the current conditional, not-exercised wording. Dressel was cut by Washington before the regular season, leaving the Redskins without game value from the acquisition. Houston therefore gets a narrow C+ to D+ win despite the unidentified downstream pick.

Buffalo moved down from No. 3 to No. 8 during the first round of the 1987 draft and added a second-round pick. The Bills selected linebacker Shane Conlan at No. 8, and the extra second-round asset was later used in the sequence that moved Buffalo up for cornerback Nate Odomes. Conlan became a three-time Pro Bowler, giving Buffalo a major win from trading down.

On draft day in 1987, Kansas City moved from No. 46 to No. 35 and selected Christian Okoye, sending Houston No. 46 and No. 105. Okoye became one of the defining Chiefs of his era, rushing for 4,897 yards and 40 touchdowns while earning two Pro Bowl selections and first-team All-Pro honors. Houston's return did not approach that impact, making Kansas City the clear winner.

Houston received Kansas City's 1987 sixth-round selection for Larry Moriarty and used No. 159 on linebacker Toby Caston. Caston played 90 NFL games over six seasons, beginning with the Oilers and later continuing with Detroit. His Houston role was not that of a star, but the sixth-round asset produced more sustained professional value than Moriarty's limited rushing contribution did for Kansas City.

Detroit acquired offensive lineman Harvey Salem from Houston on September 23, 1986 for a 1987 second-round choice, No. 36 overall. Salem became an immediate starter and remained a regular part of the Lions line through 1990, appearing in 65 games with 62 starts during that span. Detroit turned one future pick into five seasons of useful starting-level line play.

Los Angeles acquired the rights to quarterback Jim Everett from Houston in September 1986 for Kent Hill, William Fuller and a package of premium future picks. Everett became the Rams' long-term starter and produced some of the franchise's best passing seasons of the era. Houston received immediate veteran help and substantial draft capital, creating meaningful value on both sides.

Houston acquired kicker Tony Zendejas, who became a productive multi-season specialist for the Oilers. His sustained scoring contribution gave the franchise the clearest realized value in the deal and outweighed the future fifth-round asset that moved to Washington. That outcome supports a B grade for Tennessee Titans within the final Houston Oilers Win verdict.

Houston acquired wide receiver Drew Hill from the Rams in July 1985 for conditional middle-round draft compensation that is recorded as the 1986 No. 172 choice and the 1987 No. 91 choice. Hill immediately became a central Oilers receiver and stayed productive through 1991, giving Houston far more realized on-field value than the conditional picks produced for Los Angeles.

Denver acquired Houston’s 31st overall pick during the 1985 draft and used it on wide receiver Vance Johnson. The Broncos sent the 36th and 138th picks to Houston. Johnson became a core Denver receiver, finishing his Broncos career with 415 receptions, 5,695 yards and 37 receiving touchdowns. That decade of offensive value gave Denver the stronger result even though Houston also received productive players.

Houston traded defensive end Bob Hamm and its 1986 fourth-round pick, No. 87, to Kansas City on April 30, 1985 for the Chiefs' 1985 fifth-round pick, No. 133, their 1985 sixth-round pick, No. 153, and a 1986 conditional pick whose final identity is not established. Houston used No. 133 on Frank Bush and No. 153 on Joe Krakoski; Bush gave the Oilers 19 games and 14 starts before a neck condition ended his career.

Minnesota received the 30th pick in the 1985 draft after agreeing not to select Ray Childress at No. 2 or trade that choice to a team that intended to take him. The Vikings used No. 30 on cornerback Issiac Holt, who became a useful starter and later part of the Herschel Walker package. Houston preserved access to Childress, who became a franchise defensive cornerstone.

Minnesota acquired Houston’s No. 2 overall pick on April 9, 1985 for the Vikings’ No. 3 and No. 30 selections. The Vikings later moved No. 2 to Atlanta and came away with No. 4 Chris Doleman plus No. 60 Tim Meamber. That chain gave Minnesota a Hall of Fame pass rusher, making the acquired No. 2 choice enormously valuable even though Minnesota did not make the selection itself.

New York traded running back Butch Woolfolk to Houston on March 21, 1985, for the third-round selection at No. 58 that became Tyrone Davis. Davis appeared in only seven NFL games, while Woolfolk immediately produced a major 1985 season for the Oilers. The draft return was legitimate, but the realized value strongly favored Houston.

Houston moved Earl Campbell to New Orleans for a 1985 first-round pick that became Richard Johnson, turning a declining franchise legend into a useful starting cornerback. The Saints reunited Campbell with Bum Phillips, but the move chased nostalgia more than remaining value. Campbell was no longer the dominant back from his Oilers peak, and New Orleans burned premium draft capital for a short, limited return.

The Raiders sent center Jim Romano to Houston on October 9, 1984 for 1985 third- and sixth-round picks. Romano became an immediate Oilers starter and opened 32 games over parts of three seasons. Los Angeles turned the picks into Stefon Adams and Rusty Hilger, receiving useful defensive, return and backup-quarterback value. Both sides produced enough tangible value to make the exchange essentially even.

Denver acquired Butch Johnson from Houston on August 20, 1984 for a 1985 third-round pick. Johnson immediately became a meaningful receiving weapon, producing 587 yards and six touchdowns in 1984 and 380 yards with three scores in 1985. Houston used No. 82 on center Mike Kelley, whose NFL contribution was limited. The Broncos received the clearly stronger realized return.

Dallas acquired Mike Renfro, a 1984 second-round selection and Houston's 1985 fifth-rounder for Butch Johnson and Dallas's own 1984 second-round pick. Renfro became a productive Cowboys receiver, and the future fifth was used on Herschel Walker. Houston's return did not approach that combined value, making the existing Oilers-win reading backwards in hindsight.

Los Angeles acquired running back Dwayne Crutchfield from Houston on April 9, 1984 for the Rams' sixth-round pick, which became No. 161 and wide receiver Eric Mullins. Crutchfield gave the Rams 337 rushing yards and two total touchdowns in 15 games. Mullins played 13 games for Houston and caught six passes for 85 yards and a touchdown. Los Angeles produced the stronger realized return, preserving a B/C+ Rams win.

Washington acquired the 1984 fourth-round pick at No. 102 from Houston and used it on running back Jimmy Smith, sending the Oilers a 1985 third-round choice that became No. 80. Smith appeared in only one game for Washington and produced two kickoff returns before being released. Houston secured the stronger draft asset, giving the Oilers the clear edge.

Los Angeles/Cleveland/St. Louis Rams received 1984 twelfth round pick (#309-Rod Fisher) from Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans, while Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans received past considerations (details not identified) in the 1984-01-01 deal. Los Angeles converted the exchange into the No. 309 pick used on Rod Fisher, while Houston's side is recorded only as past considerations; the incomplete detail argues for restraint. The final grades are C+ for Los Angeles/Cleveland/St. Louis Rams and C+ for Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans, producing a verdict of Even Trade.

Las Vegas/Oakland Raiders received 1984 11th round pick (282nd overall, Gardner Williams) in the 1983-06-13 exchange with Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans. Gardner Williams appeared in only three NFL games, so the Raiders did not realize meaningful lasting value from the final selection. The realized value remains close enough to support an even result.

Miami moved from No. 83 to No. 76 in the 1983 draft and selected defensive end Charles Benson, sending Houston the No. 83 pick plus No. 139. Benson played 28 NFL games and recorded two sacks. The Oilers used the two incoming selections on defensive back Steve Brown and defensive lineman Jerome Foster, receiving far more combined professional production from the exchange.

Seattle moved from No. 9 to No. 3 in the 1983 draft by sending Houston Nos. 9, 42 and 69. The Seahawks selected Curt Warner, who immediately rushed for 1,449 yards and became a franchise star. Houston used No. 9 on Bruce Matthews, a Hall of Fame lineman with 14 Pro Bowls, while also receiving Keith Bostic and Chris Dressel. Both teams won, but Houston’s return was historic.

The Rams moved from No. 3 to No. 2 in the 1983 draft and selected Eric Dickerson, sending Houston No. 3 plus fourth-round choices in 1983 and 1984. Dickerson became a Hall of Fame superstar. Houston then traded No. 3 to Seattle and used the resulting package to select Hall of Famer Bruce Matthews plus additional players, creating major value for both clubs.

New Orleans ended the Archie Manning era by sending its longtime quarterback to Houston for offensive tackle Leon Gray. Gray was already an accomplished offensive lineman and quickly gave the Saints a Pro Bowl season in 1983, while Manning's Oilers stay lasted only two games. The combination of immediate line quality and greater staying power makes New Orleans the clear winner.

Green Bay Packers received 1983 tenth round pick (#253-Byron Williams). Green Bay received Houston's 1983 tenth-round choice, later No. 253 Byron Williams. Williams did not become a Packers regular-season contributor, so the acquired selection produced little direct football value. The late-round nature of the asset limits the downside, but Houston received at least some immediate service from Mark Koncar and therefore edges the exchange. That result supports a D+ grade for Green Bay Packers.

Green Bay traded a 1983 third-round pick to Houston in July 1982 for offensive tackle Angelo Fields. Fields did not appear in a regular-season game for the Packers. The third-round asset later moved again and ultimately became the No. 76 selection used by Miami on Charles Benson, so Houston should not be credited with Benson's career directly. Still, the Oilers preserved meaningful draft capital while Green Bay received no on-field return.

Detroit Lions received 1982 seventh round pick (#175-Phil Bates) from Tennessee Titans. Detroit used the seventh-round choice on Phil Bates, but Bates did not establish an NFL regular-season career and created no meaningful Lions return. That realized return supports a D grade for Detroit Lions. The final verdict is Even Trade, based on the regular-season service and draft value each club actually received after the exchange.

The Rams acquired tight end Mike Barber plus 1982 picks No. 67 and No. 207 from Houston. The Oilers received Lewis Gilbert and picks No. 44 and No. 77, which became Oliver Luck and Robert Abraham. Barber gave Los Angeles several productive seasons, including 55 catches for 657 yards in 1983. Abraham became a 60-start linebacker for Houston, and Luck added quarterback depth, giving the Oilers the slight overall edge.

The Raiders traded Hall of Fame tight end Dave Casper to Houston in October 1980 for a first-round pick and two second-round picks. Houston still received a productive, Pro Bowl-level veteran, so its side was not an F. Oakland, however, used the package on Ted Watts, Hall of Famer Howie Long, and Super Bowl XVIII hero Jack Squirek, creating extraordinary long-term value.

The Raiders acquired Kenny King from the Houston Oilers in 1980 for veteran safety Jack Tatum and seventh-round selections in 1980 and 1981. King became a long-term contributor in silver and black, playing 85 games with 67 starts, rushing for 2,468 yards and participating in two Super Bowl championship seasons. Houston received recognizable veteran and draft value, but King's sustained production gives the Raiders the clear advantage.

Oakland acquired Dan Pastorini in a straight quarterback swap for Ken Stabler, but Pastorini started only five games before breaking his leg. He threw for 932 yards with five touchdowns and eight interceptions as a Raider. Jim Plunkett’s championship run rescued Oakland’s season, but that success came after Pastorini was lost and did not improve the return from this trade.

New England traded All-Pro tackle Leon Gray to Houston for a 1980 first-round pick, a sixth-round pick and cash. The first-rounder became running back Vagas Ferguson, who started 21 games for the Patriots and rushed for 818 yards as a rookie. The return was usable, but it did not replace the elite line play New England surrendered.

Indianapolis moved from No. 72 to No. 69 in the 1979 third round, sending Houston the No. 72 selection plus No. 171 in the seventh round. The Colts used No. 69 on Kim Anderson, who played 56 NFL games with 12 starts for Indianapolis. Houston used No. 72 on Kenny King, who later became valuable enough to headline a significant trade with the Raiders, while No. 171 Tim Ries added little. The Oilers hold a narrow edge.

Kansas City moved up to No. 23 in the 1979 draft for quarterback Steve Fuller, sending Houston the 31st pick and a 1980 second-rounder. Fuller started 31 games for the Chiefs over four seasons and showed mobility, but he never developed into a long-term franchise quarterback. The Chiefs received real starting value, just not enough to justify the full premium.

New York received seventh-round selections in 1979 and 1980 and used them on Keith Brown and Bennie Leverett. The two late-round choices gave the Jets inexpensive roster opportunities, but neither generated production comparable to Rich Caster's Houston tenure. Caster delivered three seasons of receiving value for the Oilers after the exchange, creating the larger direct contribution.

Tampa Bay acquired running back Don Hardeman from Houston in exchange for Anthony Davis in April 1978. Player records identify the correct Anthony Davis born in 1952, eliminating confusion with other players of the same name. Hardeman delivered the more useful post-trade return, giving the Buccaneers a modest edge while Houston still received a legitimate player in the swap.

Kansas City Chiefs received 1979 sixth round pick (conditional on Wilson making Oilers roster; not conveyed) in the exchange with Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans. Because Wilson did not make the Oilers roster, the conditional 1979 sixth-round choice did not convey and Kansas City received no draft return. The supported hindsight grade is C. That mark reflects realized value tied directly to this transaction, with the overall result recorded as Even Trade.

Tampa Bay surrendered the first overall pick in 1978 and received tight end Jimmie Giles, No. 17 overall, a second-rounder, and third- and fifth-round selections in 1979. The Buccaneers drafted Doug Williams at No. 17, paired him with Giles, and reached the 1979 NFC Championship Game. The other three selections were modest, but Williams and Giles made this an unusually productive return.

New Orleans traded rookie punter Cliff Parsley to the Houston Oilers on September 12, 1977 for a draft choice that became the 1978 sixth-round pick at No. 157 overall, Francis Chesley. The choice had originated with Washington before moving through Houston. Parsley became Houston's punter for six seasons and 82 games, while Chesley never played a regular-season game for New Orleans.

Buffalo Bills received 1978 seventh round pick (#183-Steve Powell) in the exchange with Houston Oilers. The return is graded B- after weighing the transaction cost and the practical value visible in hindsight. The grade remains tied to documented value for the acquiring club, without assigning credit for unresolved or hypothetical downstream consideration.

Buffalo acquired wide receiver Emmett Edwards from Houston during the 1976 season. Edwards caught two passes for 53 yards for the Bills, so the immediate return was small. The third-round choice sent to Houston became Rob Carpenter, a productive NFL runner, making Buffalo's brief receiving help expensive in hindsight.

New England acquired Willie Germany and received 1976 defensive-back depth. Germany appeared in 10 games for the Patriots that season, giving the club a real but limited short-term return. He did not become a long-term New England starter, so the value remained well below what Houston ultimately created from the draft pick.

Miami acquired veteran cornerback Ken Ellis from Houston during the 1976 season and received a short-term defensive contributor. Ellis appeared in 12 games with five starts for the Dolphins. The cost became much more significant when Houston used Miami's 1977 third-round choice on Jimmie Giles and also held a fourth-round selection, giving the Oilers the stronger return.

Atlanta acquired linebacker Guy Roberts from Houston in exchange for Dennis Havig on September 6, 1976. Roberts recorded an interception for the Falcons, while Havig gave the Oilers one season of reserve work. Neither side found major long-term value, but Atlanta received the slightly stronger on-field return and earns a narrow win after correcting Roberts' identity.

Seattle acquired rookie receiver Steve Largent from the Houston Oilers for an eighth-round pick in the 1977 draft. Largent spent the next 14 seasons with the Seahawks, caught 819 passes for 13,089 yards and 100 touchdowns, made seven Pro Bowls and retired holding six major NFL receiving records. The modest price made the deal one of the great steals in league history.

New York moved Joe Dawkins and Dave Simonson to Houston in August 1976 for the 1977 seventh-round pick used on Al Dixon and another undisclosed selection, possibly the 1978 choice used on Rich Martini. Dawkins contributed only a limited final NFL season for Houston, while Dixon gave the Giants several seasons of service. New York receives a B- to Houston's C-.

Washington acquired veteran guard Ron Saul from Houston for three future draft choices, one each in the seventh round of 1977, sixth round of 1978, and third round of 1979. Saul became a durable Washington starter, appearing in 81 games with 77 starts over six seasons. That sustained line value outweighed Houston’s diffuse return from the future-pick package.

Kansas City traded veteran receiver Otis Taylor to Houston for a conditional 1978 fifth-round choice after a physical. Taylor, a Chiefs great, did not appear in a regular-season game for the Oilers. Kansas City therefore extracted future draft value from a player near the end of his career, giving the Chiefs the better side.

Green Bay acquired quarterback Lynn Dickey from Houston for John Hadl, Ken Ellis, two draft choices and cash. The package was substantial, but Dickey became the Packers' primary quarterback for much of nine seasons and one of the franchise's most productive passers of his era. That sustained value makes Green Bay the winner despite the steep price.

Houston received the rights to running back Duane Thomas. Thomas had been a productive NFL player earlier in his career, but those rights did not produce meaningful Oilers regular-season value. He later attempted comebacks with other clubs instead. With no durable Houston contribution emerging from the acquired rights, the Oilers' side of the exchange finished below neutral.

Denver Broncos received Jeff Severson in the exchange with Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans. Jeff Severson gave Denver a full season of defensive-back depth and several starts. Against the other side's return of 1976 seventh round pick (#197-Larry Harris), that outcome supports a B- grade. The transaction is ultimately judged as Denver Broncos Win, with the grade reflecting realized football value rather than the name or nominal value of the asset on the trade date.

New England Patriots received 1976 seventh round pick (#202-Perry Brooks) from Tennessee Titans. New England used the seventh-round choice on Perry Brooks, but Brooks did not supply the Patriots meaningful regular-season value. That realized return supports a D grade for New England Patriots. The final verdict is Even Trade, based on the regular-season service and draft value each club actually received after the exchange.

Green Bay Packers received Jerry Lawrence, while Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans received cash. Green Bay bought Lawrence on August 4, 1975 and released him only a week later, without regular-season value. The hindsight grades are D+ for Green Bay Packers and B- for Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans, producing a Tennessee Titans Win verdict.

Cleveland acquired rookie wide receiver Willie Miller from Houston on July 16, 1975 for its 1976 twelfth-round pick, No. 324. Miller played all 14 games for the Browns that season, catching seven passes for 57 yards and making three starts.

Green Bay traded a 1976 sixth-round choice to Houston for Paul Robinson's rights, then released Robinson before the 1975 regular season. The pick is traceable to No. 166, which Houston later sent to Kansas City with two other choices as free-agent compensation for Elmo Wright. Wright played only two Oilers games with no receptions. Both sides converted the deal into little realized value, supporting equal low grades.

Houston sent John Matuszak and a future third-round pick to Kansas City for Curley Culp and the 1975 first-round pick used on Robert Brazile. Culp and Brazile became Hall of Fame pillars of the Oilers defense. Kansas City later used the third-rounder on productive twelve-year receiver Henry Marshall, creating real value but not enough to match two Hall of Famers.

Baltimore acquired tight end Ron Mayo from Houston on September 12, 1974 for the 1975 tenth-round pick at No. 246. Mayo appeared in nine games for the Colts that season without a start and contributed mainly on special teams. Houston used the returned selection on Alan Pringle, who did not become a notable NFL contributor.

Detroit Lions received Edd Hargett from Tennessee Titans, while Tennessee Titans received 1975 15th round pick (selection not identified) in the 1974-08-16 deal. In hindsight, Detroit Lions's return did not separate far enough from Tennessee Titans to justify a higher grade. The final grades are C for Detroit Lions and C for Tennessee Titans, producing a verdict of Even Trade. The rating reflects the documented package, the certainty of the consideration, and the football value that can actually be assigned in hindsight.

Kansas City acquired running back and returner Bill Thomas from Houston for the 1975 seventh-round pick that became Mike Biehle. Thomas played all 14 games for the Chiefs in 1974 and handled 25 kickoff returns for 571 yards, giving Kansas City a full season of special-teams value. Biehle, selected No. 162 by Houston, never appeared in an NFL regular-season game.

San Francisco sent running back Vic Washington to Houston on August 15, 1974 for the Oilers' 1976 first-round choice and 1977 third-round choice. Washington played 12 games with five starts for Houston in 1974 and was released the following September. The 49ers' acquired capital became defensive back Tim Fox at No. 21 in 1976 and Elmo Boyd at No. 65 in 1977, giving San Francisco two chances from a player who supplied Houston only a short stay. That balance of realized value gives the edge to San Francisco 49ers.

Houston acquired veteran center Fred Hoaglin, who appeared in 28 games across the next two seasons for the Oilers. Baltimore received the 1975 tenth-round pick used on Alan Pringle, whose NFL career consisted of one game with Detroit rather than meaningful Colts production. The Oilers received usable offensive-line depth for two seasons, while the draft return produced essentially no direct value for Baltimore. That modest but clear production edge decides the trade.

Dallas Cowboys received 1975 fourth round pick (#90-Pat Donovan), while Houston Oilers received Mike Montgomery. Dallas sent Mike Montgomery to Houston for the fourth-round choice that became No. 90 Pat Donovan. The supported history provides enough detail to judge the exchange without overstating uncertain downstream information. Dallas Cowboys earns a A- grade, and the overall verdict is Dallas Cowboys Win.

Houston acquired linebacker Duane Benson. Atlanta received the 1975 third-round selection used on running back Woody Thompson, who played 35 NFL games and rushed for 877 yards. The Falcons turned a veteran into a top-65 draft choice and then received several seasons of offensive production from that selection. Houston's return did not match the value Atlanta realized from the pick.

New England traded linebacker Steve Kiner to the Houston Oilers on January 30, 1974 for Houston's ninth-round pick, No. 209. The Patriots used the selection on Ed McCartney, who never appeared in an NFL regular-season game. Kiner became a five-year Houston starter, playing 72 games with 71 starts from 1974 through 1978 and contributing to the Oilers' rise into an AFC contender.

New Orleans acquired defensive lineman Leo Brooks from Houston on August 20, 1973 in a straight player-for-player trade for running back Bob Gresham. Brooks did not become a regular-season Saints contributor and soon moved on, while Gresham immediately started 10 games for the Oilers and produced 400 rushing yards plus 244 receiving yards in 1973. Houston received the clearly stronger first-year return.

New Orleans traded running back James Ford to Houston on August 1, 1973 for sixth- and tenth-round choices in the 1974 draft. Houston released Ford before the regular season, while the Saints retained two future selections. Because the Oilers received no regular-season contribution and New Orleans recovered two draft assets, the Saints hold a straightforward but still modest hindsight win.

Dallas Cowboys received conditional future draft pick (not exercised). Dallas' return was a conditional future draft pick. The condition was not exercised, so Dallas realized no selection from the consideration. That realized return supports a D- grade. Houston Oilers received Ralph Coleman, and the overall verdict is Even Trade.

Denver traded linebacker Bill McKoy to Houston on July 2, 1973 for the Oilers' 1974 seventh-round draft choice. Contemporary transaction records confirm the player-for-pick exchange, but the exact selection Denver ultimately exercised is not identified in the reviewed public record. McKoy never appeared in a Houston regular-season game and resurfaced with San Francisco in 1974.

Los Angeles Rams received Bob Crum; Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans received 1974 sixth-round pick No. 154, Booker Brown. Crum never appeared in a regular-season game for Los Angeles. Brown never appeared for Houston; his NFL games came later with San Diego. The realized outcomes support Even Trade, with Los Angeles Rams graded C and Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans graded C.

Washington acquired veteran tight end Alvin Reed from Houston on May 28, 1973 for a future draft choice whose exact 1974 round and pick cannot be established from the surviving record. Reed played 33 games for Washington over three seasons, starting five in 1973 and totaling 15 receptions for 165 yards and three touchdowns. He supplied real but limited depth before his 1976 release.

Washington acquired Hall of Fame safety Ken Houston from the Houston Oilers in 1973 for five veterans: Jim Snowden, Mack Alston, Clifton McNeil, Mike Fanucci and Jeff Severson. Houston immediately became a cornerstone of George Allen’s defense and continued a remarkable run of Pro Bowl and All-Pro recognition.

Dallas sent defensive lineman Tody Smith and receiver Billy Parks to Houston in 1973 for the Oilers' 1974 first- and third-round picks. Houston's collapse made the first-rounder No. 1 overall, which Dallas used on Ed “Too Tall” Jones; the third-rounder became quarterback Danny White at No. 53. The Cowboys landed two franchise fixtures from one deal, while the Oilers received only short-term veteran production.

Buffalo traded defensive lineman Al Cowlings to Houston on April 30, 1973 for the Oilers' second-round pick in the 1974 draft. The Bills used No. 27 on linebacker Doug Allen, who played 28 games and started 13 across two Buffalo seasons. Cowlings started 23 games in two Houston seasons and had some defensive value, making this a modest Buffalo win rather than a runaway result.

St. Louis acquired defensive back Jim Tolbert from Houston for linebackers Mike McGill and Jim Hargrove on April 24, 1973. Tolbert immediately started 13 games for the Cardinals and remained there for three seasons, while McGill and Hargrove did not record an NFL season after 1972. That direct post-trade production makes the Cardinals the clear winner.

The Houston franchise received veteran defensive back Al Haymond from Washington. The available career and transaction record does not establish a large long-term advantage from Haymond's side of the exchange, particularly when compared with Washington's fifth-round selection. The C grade reflects a legitimate veteran return but not enough sustained separation to move the deal away from an Even Trade conclusion.

New Orleans acquired quarterback Kent Nix and defensive tackle Ron Billingsley from Houston for Edd Hargett, Dave Parks and Tom Stincic in March 1973. Neither Nix nor Billingsley played a regular-season game for the Saints, while Parks made five appearances for Houston. The Oilers therefore receive a slight edge, though the transaction produced little lasting value for either club.

Baltimore sent Tom Nowatzke to Houston in March 1973 and received a 1974 fourteenth-round selection in return. Colts history supports the future-pick compensation, but the eventual player tied to that choice cannot be established confidently, so the asset remains unidentified. Nowatzke retired in August before appearing in a regular-season game for Houston, while Baltimore at least retained a future draft asset from a veteran nearing the end of his career.

Buffalo Bills received Allen Aldridge in the 1973-02-14 exchange with Houston Oilers, giving up Paul Guidry. Buffalo acquired linebacker Allen Aldridge in the veteran-for-veteran exchange. That return supports a C grade for Buffalo Bills. The final verdict is Even Trade, based on the football value tied directly to the assets in this deal.

Baltimore sent center Bill Curry to Houston for guard Tom Regner and the 1973 third-round pick used on fullback Bill Olds. Curry's Oilers stint ended after only four games in 1973, while Olds developed into a useful Colts starter and offensive contributor, including 14 starts in 1975. Regner added little in Baltimore, but the pick outcome created enough value for a clear Colts win.

Atlanta acquired veteran defensive tackle Mike Tilleman from Houston for the Oilers' own 1973 first-round selection, No. 14 overall. Tilleman became a multi-year Falcons starter and provided four seasons of dependable interior defensive play. Houston used the premium pick on George Amundson, whose Oilers tenure produced only 194 career rushing yards and five starts.

Cincinnati acquired wide receiver Charlie Joiner and linebacker Ron Pritchard from Houston in October 1972 for running backs Paul Robinson and Fred Willis. Joiner later became a Hall of Famer, although most of his legendary production came after Cincinnati sent him to San Diego in 1976.

Denver acquired quarterback Charley Johnson from Houston for a 1973 third-round choice on August 16, 1972. Johnson became the Broncos’ primary quarterback and led the franchise to its first winning season in 1973. Houston later dealt the acquired pick to Baltimore, which selected Bill Olds at No. 61. Denver’s direct multi-season quarterback value makes this a strong Broncos win.

Buffalo Bills received 1974 14th round pick (#339-Phil Lamm) in the exchange with Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans. The fourteenth-round choice became No. 339 Phil Lamm, but the selection did not create NFL value comparable to what Carr provided after leaving Buffalo. Against Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans's return of Levert Carr, that result supports a D+ grade. The transaction is judged as Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans Win, with the mark based on the football value that actually followed from the deal.

Houston traded Sam Walton to Minnesota in July 1972 for a future 1973 draft choice. Historical transaction listings and contemporary reporting support the exchange, while the round and eventual selection remain unidentified. Walton gave Minnesota another veteran option entering Bud Grant's sixth season, but no clearly documented long-term Vikings impact or traceable Oilers draft payoff creates a decisive hindsight edge.

Buffalo acquired Scott Lewis from Houston for a conditional 1973 draft choice. The condition was not exercised, meaning Houston ultimately received no draft asset from the agreement. Lewis also did not create a durable, clearly separable Buffalo payoff. Because neither side realized enough lasting value to establish meaningful separation, an even low-value result remains appropriate.

On 1972-07-18, Chicago Bears received Eric Hutchinson, while Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans received 1973 undisclosed draft pick (selection not identified). The hindsight verdict is Chicago Bears Win, with Chicago Bears graded B and Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans graded C. The evaluation follows the documented consideration and the football value that can be traced from it, while keeping unverified downstream pick identities or conditional outcomes out of the final judgment.

Houston sent defensive end Russell Price to Miami on November 23, 1971 for the Dolphins' 1972 tenth-round pick, No. 259 overall. The Oilers used the selection on Tulsa tight end Jim Butler, but Pro Football Reference records no NFL regular-season games for Butler. With neither returned asset producing documented regular-season value, Houston's realized return was effectively neutral.

Houston traded tight end Willie Frazier to Kansas City on October 26, 1971 for fullback Robert Holmes and the Chiefs' 1972 third-round pick, No. 75 overall. Houston used that selection on guard Solomon Freelon. Holmes immediately started eight games for the Oilers and produced 426 scrimmage yards with four rushing touchdowns in 1971, while Freelon went on to play 39 NFL games with 11 starts.

Denver acquired Tom Domres from Houston for the 1972 sixth-round choice that became No. 136 Elmer Allen. Domres immediately started all five games he played for Denver in 1971 and returned for 11 more appearances in 1972. That usable two-season line contribution gave the Broncos more realized football value than the Oilers generated from the late-round selection.

Kansas City sent 1971 second-round defensive end Scott Lewis to Houston on August 27, 1971 and received the Oilers' 1973 second-round pick. The Chiefs used No. 27 overall on tight end Gary Butler, who played all 14 games in 1973, started three and caught eight passes for 124 yards and two touchdowns. Butler's tangible NFL production gave Kansas City the stronger return.

Miami acquired Russell Price from Houston in August 1971 for a draft choice that was later identified as 1972 tenth-round No. 259 Jimmy Butler. Price did not become a major Dolphins contributor, and the Oilers' late selection did not produce a meaningful long-term return. The modest outcomes on both sides leave the transaction essentially even.

Pittsburgh received Houston's 1972 15th-round choice, No. 368, and used it on John Hulecki in exchange for Worthy McClure. Hulecki did not produce an NFL regular-season return for the Steelers. McClure likewise failed to establish meaningful NFL value for Houston, leaving Pittsburgh without enough realized benefit to separate itself from the other side.

San Diego acquired Jerry LeVias, who gave the Chargers four seasons of receiving and return work with substantial starting time. The longer tenure gave San Diego steady offensive and special-teams value from one player. That durability is a real advantage, although Houston received two immediate starters in the same exchange, keeping the overall comparison much closer than LeVias' longevity alone might suggest.

New Orleans sent defensive lineman Mike Tilleman to Houston and received Glen Ray Hines, Jess Lewis and two future draft choices. The Saints used the 1972 second-rounder on Willie Hall and later moved the 1973 third-round asset in another transaction. Houston received a dependable starter in Tilleman, while New Orleans gained several useful avenues of value through players and draft capital.

St. Louis sent linebacker Dave Olerich to Houston for the 1972 fourth-round selection that became No. 84 overall and defensive lineman Martin Imhof. Olerich played all 14 games for the Oilers in 1971 but did not start, while Imhof started eight games for the Cardinals as a rookie in 1972. Neither became a long-term star, but St. Louis extracted the better direct return from the trade.

Denver Broncos received Leroy Mitchell, while Tennessee Titans received John Charles. Denver received Leroy Mitchell in the straight player-for-player swap. Mitchell did not create a major long-term advantage for the Broncos, leaving Denver with a modest return rather than a transformative one. In hindsight, that direct return supports a C grade for Denver Broncos. The grade reflects realized football value from this exchange rather than reputation alone.

New Orleans Saints and Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans completed this trade on 1971-01-25. Burrough became the defining asset, spending eleven seasons with Houston, reaching the Pro Bowl and leading NFL wide receivers with 1,063 yards in 1975. New Orleans received volume, but no comparable long-term centerpiece. The post-trade results provide the clearest measure of what each club gained from the exchange. The historical return supports a Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans Win verdict, with New Orleans Saints graded C+ and Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans graded A.

Los Angeles Chargers received Doug Wilkerson. Doug Wilkerson became a 14-year Chargers mainstay, played 195 games for the franchise, and earned three Pro Bowls along with All-Pro recognition. That outcome supports a A+ grade because the return is measured by the direct football value Los Angeles Chargers actually received after the deal, compared with the asset sent the other way.

Denver Broncos received 1971 eighth round pick (#187-Tom Beard), while Tennessee Titans received Tom Smiley. Houston received Tom Smiley and Denver received the 1971 eighth-round choice used at No. 187 on Tom Beard. Smiley produced almost no rushing value for Houston, and Beard did not create regular-season value for Denver, leaving little separation. Denver Broncos earns a C- grade, and the overall verdict is Even Trade.

Cleveland traded Jerry Rhome to Houston on January 27, 1970 for Houston's third-round pick, No. 66. That choice did not become Cleveland's own drafted player: it was the conditional third-round payment Cleveland owed Dallas from the earlier Rhome acquisition, and Dallas used No. 66 on Charlie Waters. The record should preserve the acquired pick while making the downstream Dallas conveyance explicit.

New York Jets received W.K. Hicks; Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans received 1970 fifth-round pick No. 110, Ron Saul. Hicks started 29 games for the Jets over three seasons and intercepted 13 passes, including eight in 1970. Saul became a useful Oilers lineman, appearing in 61 games with 36 starts from 1970-75 before Houston traded him. The realized outcomes support New York Jets Win, with New York Jets graded A- and Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans graded B-.

St. Louis/Arizona Cardinals and Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans completed this trade on 1970-01-21. Farr immediately became a full-time Cardinals starter and intercepted five passes in 1970, then continued starting in 1971 and 1972. Houston received experienced players, but St. Louis secured the most durable high-level post-trade contribution. The post-trade results provide the clearest measure of what each club gained from the exchange. The historical return supports a St. Louis/Arizona Cardinals Win verdict, with St. Louis/Arizona Cardinals graded B+ and Houston Oilers/Tennessee Titans graded C+.

Boston acquired Sid Blanks, Larry Carwell, Ron Caveness, and Charlie Frazier from Houston for Leroy Mitchell and a 1970 second-round pick. The four-player package supplied immediate roster depth, and Patriots records explicitly document the exchange. None of the incoming players became a long-term franchise cornerstone, however, while giving up a second-round selection reduced the value of the quantity Boston received. Houston therefore keeps the slight edge.

The Jets acquired veteran guard Bob Talamini from Houston on August 16, 1968 for the 1969 third-round pick that became running back Rich Johnson. Talamini played all 14 games, started nine and remained the starting left guard for Super Bowl III, helping New York rush for 142 yards in its championship upset. One championship season outweighed Johnson's lone Oilers year.

New York used Houston's acquired No. 214 pick on Karl Henke, who played six games without a start for the 1968 championship Jets and recorded an estimated one sack. Houston received the AFL rights to Rich 'Bud' Marshall, then got 22 games and nine starts from him across 1967-68, including nine starts and an estimated two sacks in 1967. The longer, larger role flips the result to Houston/Tennessee, B- to C.

Miami sent quarterback Billy Anderson to Houston in December 1967 for a 1968 ninth-round pick, No. 240, later used on defensive back Tom Paciorek. Anderson’s NFL career consisted of eight games for the Oilers in 1967, and Paciorek never played an NFL regular-season game. With neither side receiving meaningful post-transaction NFL production, the exchange lands squarely in even territory.

Boston/New England Patriots received Don Trull from Houston Oilers, giving up 1968 ninth round pick (#224-Bob Robertson). New England acquired Don Trull as an immediate quarterback option. The move added depth, but the available record does not show enough lasting impact to push the Patriots above a C on this transaction. That return supports a C grade for Boston/New England Patriots. The final verdict is Tennessee Titans Win.

Kansas City Chiefs received Jacky Lee, Ernie Ladd, and 1968 first round pick (#22-George Daney) from Houston Oilers for Pete Beathard. Kansas City received Lee, Ladd and pick No. 22 George Daney, who stayed with the Chiefs for years. Across the complete player and draft outcomes, the exchange supports the Kansas City Chiefs Win verdict while still crediting the other club for the useful value it realized.

San Diego received defensive lineman Scott Appleton and linebacker Johnny Baker, and both gave the Chargers useful 1967 service. Appleton started all 14 games, while Baker also contributed to the defense. That is a solid two-player return, but it was outweighed by the immediate star-level season Houston received from cornerback Miller Farr.

Buffalo Bills received 1967 twelfth round pick (#292-Ernie Ames). Buffalo used the twelfth-round selection on Ernie Ames, who did not establish an NFL regular-season career and therefore provided little realized value from the acquired pick. That result supports a D grade for Buffalo Bills. The final verdict is Tennessee Titans Win, based on the documented service, durability, and value each club actually obtained from this exchange.

Kansas City acquired center Wayne Frazier from Houston in August 1966 for a 1967 tenth-round pick. Frazier immediately started all 14 games for the AFL champion Chiefs and remained a starter for part of 1967. He was the center on the team that reached Super Bowl I, giving Kansas City significant immediate value from a late-round future asset. The trade clearly favored the Chiefs.

Buffalo Bills received 1967 13th round pick (#319-George Carter). Buffalo used the thirteenth-round selection on George Carter, but Carter chose professional basketball and never supplied the Bills direct NFL regular-season value. That result supports a D grade for Buffalo Bills. The final verdict is Tennessee Titans Win, based on the documented service, durability, and value each club actually obtained from this exchange.

San Diego received John Baker, Gary Cutsinger, and Pete Jaquess from Houston while sending Ernie Ladd and Earl Faison to the Oilers. The surviving record does not securely connect the transaction to a specific additional draft return, and the downstream value is difficult to separate with confidence. The documented player exchange therefore supports a balanced result rather than a clear winner.

Miami's official trade history records a January 15, 1966 exchange sending linebacker Ron Caveness to Houston for the rights to quarterback Billy Anderson. Caveness had been selected by Miami in the AFL expansion process and was immediately turned into a quarterback-rights asset. Houston wins because Caveness became a multi-season contributor while Miami's rights to Anderson produced little visible return. The Dolphins' expansion context explains the gamble, but the actual career value landed on the Oilers' side.

Oakland acquired the rights to Kent McCloughan and turned them into six seasons, 67 games, 15 interceptions and first-team All-AFL honors in both 1966 and 1967. Houston received the rights to Henry Pickett and Garry Porterfield, but neither produced a regular-season game for the Oilers. That stark outcome gap raises the Raiders to an A and drops Houston to a D.

The Houston Oilers sent the second pick in the 1965 AFL draft to the New York Jets for the negotiating rights to quarterback Jerry Rhome. New York used that selection on Joe Namath, who became the franchise's defining quarterback and delivered the guarantee-backed upset in Super Bowl III. Rhome never supplied Houston with comparable value. Turning one set of negotiating rights into Namath makes this one of the clearest wins in early AFL history.

Boston acquired veteran lineman Bob Schmidt from the Houston Oilers for the 1965 AFL second-round choice that became No. 15 Ralph Neely. Schmidt played all 14 games for the Patriots in 1964 and started four. Neely became an outstanding Dallas tackle, but never played a regular-season game for Houston. The Patriots therefore received the direct on-field return from this exchange and earn a narrow historical win.

Denver acquired Jacky Lee's services from Houston on a two-year loan on August 14, 1964, sending All-AFL defensive tackle Bud McFadin and its 1965 first-round pick to the Oilers. That choice became the No. 2 selection, later traded to the Jets and used on Joe Namath. Lee started 11 games for Denver in 1964 but only one in 1965 before returning to Houston. The price overwhelms the temporary quarterback value.

Denver acquired former All-Pro receiver Bill Groman from Houston for two high 1964 AFL draft choices, giving Houston both premium selections in the exchange. Groman produced 27 catches for 437 yards and three touchdowns in his lone Broncos season. Houston received both premium choices, but neither became an Oilers star, leaving Denver with the better realized return.

Oakland converted its 1963 fourth- and fifth-round picks into real immediate help. Dalva Allen played 42 Raiders games across three seasons and Pro Football Reference credits him with 38 starts and 13 sacks; John White added seven games, 101 receiving yards and a touchdown. Houston's two selections, Lee Roy Caffey and Homer Jones, produced no Oilers regular-season games. The Raiders earn B+ to Houston's D.

Boston/New England Patriots received Houston Antwine from Houston Oilers, giving up 1962 fourth round pick (#30-Gary Cutsinger). Boston received Houston Antwine, an immediate defensive-line piece. The preserved grading for this historical exchange remains conservative at C, reflecting the narrow scope of this transaction record rather than assigning value from unrelated later moves. That return supports a C grade for Boston/New England Patriots. The final verdict is Tennessee Titans Win.

The New York Titans received Bill Mathis and Bob Crandall from Houston in August 1960, completing an earlier rights transaction tied to Don Floyd. Mathis became a decade-long fixture for the Titans and Jets, while Floyd developed into a long-term Houston defensive starter. Because both franchises obtained substantial early-AFL value from the exchange, a strong even B/B judgment fits better than forcing a winner.